“Biosecurity officers will visit farms operating under the new agreement to audit the fruit inspection process and ensure biosecurity requirements are being met.”

Ms Evans said the department had worked closely with growers and the Australian Banana Growers’ Council to identify any areas where growers could be empowered, without putting the wider industry at risk.

ABGC chair Stephen Lowe said anything that could simplify the process of getting produce to market - and make it more cost effective - was great news.

“Consumers can rest assured that banana growers take pride in supplying produce that meets strict food safety and biosecurity standards, so these certification responsibilities will not be taken lightly,” Mr Lowe said.